2000 Dodge Durango: clunking or noise when steering

Filed Apr 18, 2007 · Suspension · 13,000 miles · VA

Make: dodge model: durango year: 2000, I always had problems with the durango since about 13,000, (now have 93,000. Replacement of ball joints, brake calipers, and continuous checks for clicking and vibration feeling in the steering column. This has not been right from the start. I believe there is something defective with the steering and front end. Each time I take it to the dealer for service they can never duplicate the problem. I have enjoyed the durango, except for these front end problems. The steering makes noises and has a funny response to the turning process. Could you please review closer.

Filed Aug 21, 2006 · Engine · 90,000 miles · NC

Dt*: the contact stated while at a stop with the engine idling, the engine began knocking and the needle of the oil pressure gauge dropped to zero. This was the third incident. The two previous occurrences were while driving at 45 MPH. The steering tightened as the knocking began and the oil pressure dropped. On each occasion the vehicle was taken to an independent service mechanic. The manifold, oil pan and valve cover gaskets were replaced once and sludge build up was cleaned out twice. The service dealer and manufacturer were alerted.

Filed Aug 14, 2006 · Steering · CA

2002 dodge durango check engine light illuminated continuously, black smoke was seen coming from tailpipe. Mechanic determined this was because steering wheel fluid leaking onto the computer. *kb the steering wheel had been making a clunking and whining noise when turned. This was noticed prior to the problem being diagnosed. It took several trips to the dealer and multiple repairs for the dealer to diagnose the problem. The consumer is requesting compensation from the manufacturer.

Filed Nov 2, 2004 · Steering, Suspension · 6,000 miles · CA

Since day one this vehicle has been in and out of dealership, from transmisson problems, steering , noises. I stopped bringing in truck at 30,000 miles when my warranty expired, and know I just have live with it.

Filed Apr 1, 2004 · Steering, Suspension · FL

When making a left or right turns, there would be a loud popping noise coming from the steering wheel. *ak *sc

Filed Mar 22, 2004 · Suspension · 54,500 miles · NY

Odd steering feel and intermitin noise was coming from the front end. After taking the vehicle to my local mechanic it was ound that the lower ball joints on the vehicle (2000 dodge durango) were completely worn out ready to separate. Also the upper ball joints had worn to the point of replacement. Vehicle was unsafe to drive without the necessary repairs made.

Filed Mar 3, 2004 · Driver assistance · 40,000 miles · CA · crash · 2 injuries

We bought a used 2000 durango sport approximately 5/2002 from the jeep dealer in ontario, california. They said it would haul our 19 feet travel trailer. We had sloopy steering issues. When going over a bump while traveling on the freeway the steering would wobble as if to almost lose control. When traveling on all over passes with the steering wheel turned, it will lose traction for a short period causing the steering wheel to turn by itself which results in almost lose control. When you are turning freeway "corners" at higher speeds it feels top heavy as if you could roll over due to instability of suspension & steering. It makes clicking noises from the rear end. We have bought 2 complete sets of tires new tires and 3 front end alignments since we have had this durango. Sears said the alignment was completed as best as possible, it was almost out of scope as it was, the caster and camber bearly meets the specifications. While towing our we flipped and rolled our 19ft travel trailer over, just about a half mile from our home. My husband and 12 year old daughter were not physically injured in the roll over crash, but have been tramatized to this day. The trailer jacknifed and disconnected itself off the ball and anti-sway arms; resulting in no damage to the drango. However, the trailer and personal items inside were a complete loss, not to mention the crane and the flatbed towing. My husband took this durango into a private mechanic shop for an estimate of the steering/suspension issues and was advised to have the rack & pinion knuckles replaced. We took the durango into moss brothers dodge in san bernardino, california and had them check the front suspension and specifically asked them to check the rack & pinion knuckles all due to steering issues as described above. The cost was about $800 for replacment of hubs, break master cylinder and front end alignment. Most of our complaints still exist while driving this 2000 durango today.

Filed Oct 24, 2003 · Steering, Suspension · 68,000 miles · MI

I have always had problems with my durango since about 12,000 (now have 68,000). Replacement of ball joints, brake calipers, and continuous checks for clicking and vibration feeling in the steering column (mostly when turning left). Now I am told that I must invest $750. For a new power steering rack. I don't mind paying for normal wear and tear, but this has not been right from the start. I believe there is something defective with the steering and front end. Each time it is the left side with the problem. This just does not seem right. I have enjoyed my durango except for these front end problems. I am now to the point of selling at a loss since I do not feel safe driving my durango. The steering makes noises and has a funny response to the turning process. Could you please review closer at least for those who will still be owning a durango.

Filed Aug 15, 2003 · Suspension · NC

Consumer stated when turning left or right, mainly to the right there was a loud popping noise in the steering column. Dealer stated it was a problem with the axle. *ak *ph

Filed Jul 23, 2003 · Steering · 63,000 miles · KY

Steering makes popping noises when turning right or left. Steering has begun to freeze when turn to the right.mostly occurs on interstate on/off ramps.

Filed Aug 10, 2000 · Acceleration · TN

Vehicle will accelerate on its own accord..forces to driver to brake heavier than normal use. Vehicle idles at a rate that allows to pull out of park space if brake is not depressed. If brake is allowed to release moving of vehicle can cause an accident. Has maintain a speed of approximately of 12 miles per hour over a inclined grade going over 3 speed bumps. The steering column has a popping sound and that can also be felt with feet on floor board. Have has back to a dodge dealer 3 times. All 3 times we are told computer shows nothing wrong and service department says " what do you want me to do about it".. Management has given no satisfaction. I have small children that ride in this manufactures defected automobile. I fear a out of control acceleration will occure and the steering will malfunction causing injury. Please advise. Thank you.